Smoky Mountain News

In November the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy purchased 89 acres at the southern end of the Yellow Mountain State Natural Area in a move to protect vulnerable conservation lands and pristine views.

The tract, in the Highlands of Roan, adjoins and provides a key gateway to hundreds of acres that the organization has protected in past years as well as lands in state-designated scenic areas.

The now-protected property is adjacent to and visible from hundreds of acres of public lands. The purchase also saves White Oak Creek, a tributary of the North Toe River, from potential harm. The creek flows through the property. The property is also close to the Roan/Cane Creek Mountain Important Bird Area.

“Gaining a gateway to the other lands we have protected at Burleson Bald has been a priority for SAHC.” said Jay Leutze, SAHC representative and local author. “We are thrilled to add this tract to the other lands we have protected.”